TREKKING IN SIKKIM

Sikkim is still a land where there are few tourists. Once a kingdom, Sikkim is now an integral part of the Indian Union and home to different ethnic communities largely comprising Tibetans and Nepalese. The predominant religion here is Buddhism and there are a number of ancient monasteries. It is a remote part of the country with thick forests, an amazing variety of beautiful orchids and a number of unclimbed peaks. Trekking in Sikkim also offers the adventurer numerous opportunities of trekking, rock climbing and mountaineering.

The trail goes through thick verdant forests of Pine, Spruce and Rhododendron and passes lush meadows and pasture land. The Gocha La pass has to be crossed and you pass the Onglakhing glacier and pass the Samiti Lake before you do this. The Kanchenjunga is the third highest peak in the world at 8586m. The entire trail is full of rich vegetation which includes a number of Orchid varieties. The trekking begins with a drive from Darjeeling to the small hamlet of Uttarey and after an enlightening trekking ends at Gangtok.

The Sandakphu Trekking: 7 Days Grade: Strenuous

The trail leads out of Maneybhanjyang a one and a half hour drive from Darjeeling. The trail ascends gradually through verdant forests of Oak, Rhododendron and Spruce and giant magnolias. On the trail you encounter more than 600 varieties of Orchid. April and May will thrill the flower lover while autumn has clear skies and excellent views of the mountain ranges. One of the most breathtaking views is that from Sandakphu. Here you get a 180 degree view of the Himalayan ranges extending to Nepal with great views of Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, Makalu, Lhotse and Chomolhari besides other peaks. At the end of the trek return to Darjeeling.

Goecha La - Dzongri Trekking: 8 Days - Grade: Moderate

This trekking starts from Yuksom near Darjeeling. This trekking also known as the Dzongri trekking goes through Oak and Rhododendron forests and offers great close views of the Kanchenjunga and Pandim peaks both surrounded by a host of other towering mountains. Watch a spectacular sunrise over the Kanchenjunga ranges from the Dzongri top on the fourth day of the trek. The trekking ends finally after a wonderful 8 days at the small hamlet of Yuksom from where Darjeeling is easily accessed.

The Yuksom - Dzongri Trail: 6 Days Grade: Easy to Moderate

The trail goes through the Kanchenjunga National Park and thick forests of Oak and Rhododendron. Though this a short trekking it most rewarding with excellent views of the snow clad Kanchenjunga range. You can also experience an exhilarating sunrise over Kanchenjunga on the trail. Return to Bagdogra from where you can get a flight to Delhi.